The roster of people who die as a result of violence inflicted upon them grows longer each year. This year in Brunswick County, the number increased with a fatal stabbing, an alleged patricide and an apparent murder-suicide. A handful of other cases also bear a connection — by victim or perpetrator — to our community.

For 21 years, residents of Brunswick, Bladen, Columbus, New Hanover and Pender counties have gathered for a candlelight memorial service organized by the 13th and Fifth District Attorneys’ Offices to honor homicide victims.

SUNSET BEACH — Following much discussion and debate, a majority of Sunset Beach Town Council on Monday night voted to rescind a prior action Nov. 15 to ban cabanas on the beach.

Sunset Beach Mayor Robert Forrester opened discussion at the Dec. 5 meeting stating prior reports council had enacted a ban on the sun-shading devices wasn’t accurate because such an action would have required an ordinance amendment and four affirmative votes, which didn’t occur at the Nov. 15 meeting.